# heckler

/ˈhɛkɫɝ/ (US) · /hˈɛklɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heckler
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a person who shouts loud, rude or joking comments to interrupt a speaker or performer. You find them at comedy shows, talks or political meetings.

For teachers: a person who interrupts a public speaker or performer with loud, critical or mocking remarks. Typically encountered at live performances, debates and political meetings.

## Examples

- A heckler shouts during the comedian's show.
- A heckler keeps interrupting the mayor's speech, so security asks him to leave the hall.
- Undeterred by the heckler in the third row, the lecturer pauses, answers the jibe with calm humour, and regains the audience's attention.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.